Nature's Masterpiece: The Brain and How It Works

Pool, professor emeritus of neurological surgery at Columbia University, has assembled a comprehensive book about the human brain. He begins with the organ itself, at times using colorful language to describe its functions. (""The brain,'' he writes, ``is a fuel guzzler.'') He then discusses surrounding areas, including the brain stem (if the stem is destroyed, life ends, which is why bullfighters aim for bulls' brain stems), the spinal cord (the extension of the brain that governs all body movements), the glands and nerves. The author also covers new diagnostic techniques (such as CAT and NMR scans). Generally, however, Pool doesn't seem to have determined his audience. The book is too basic for professionals but too complicated for the layman or casual reader. (December)